Celebrating Excellence in African Fashion: The 2025 FashionEVO Show & Awards*
FashionEVO Show & Awards was a night to remember, dedicated to honouring the outstanding contributions of individuals who have significantly impacted the African fashion industry. Held at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos in collaboration with the Africa Creative Market, the awards ceremony illuminated the dedication and talent that are driving this vibrant industry forward.
The awards segment recognised an array of remarkable individuals whose innovative work and leadership have shaped the landscape of African fashion. Each honoree exemplified excellence, creativity, and a commitment to advancing the industry, hosted by Victory Wilson and Grand Prince.
The host Victory Wilson and Grand Prince
The following awards were presented:
Lifetime Achievement in African Couture Award: Frank Osodi Richard was celebrated for his decades of dedication to elevating African fashion, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Frank Osodi accepting his award, presented by the CEO of Fabscent
Ecosystem Builder Award: Femi Olayebi was recognised for her extensive work in creating opportunities and platforms for emerging designers, fostering a nurturing environment for new talent.
Femi Olayebi accepting her award, presented by British Council Representatives
Grandmaster of Men’s Fashion Award: Clement Mudiaga Enajemo (Mudi Africa) was honoured for his revolutionary approach to African menswear, elevating the standards of design and craftsmanship.
Mudi accepting his award, presented by FashionEVO COO Abiola Aloba
Legend of Innovation in Menswear Award: Mr Ugochukwu Monye was commended for his consistent creative excellence in men’s fashion design, setting benchmarks for others to follow.
Ugochukwu Monye
Master of Hair Craft Award: Mr Eneoma Azubike Chigo (Zubby Definition) was recognised for his excellence in hair artistry, showcasing the vital role of hairstyling in the fashion narrative.
Zubby receiving his award from Emmy Collins
Design Excellence Award: Mrs Ejiro Michelle Amos-Tafiri was honoured for her outstanding creative vision and technical expertise, influencing the next generation of designers.
Ejiro Amos-Tafiri
Visionary Makeup Artist Award: Bimpe Onakoya was recognised for her transformative work in beauty and makeup artistry, enhancing the visual storytelling of fashion.
Bimpe Onakoya
Industry Catalyst Award: Dr Inya Lawal was recognised for his dedication to fostering collaboration between academic institutions and the fashion industry, promoting innovation and education.
Dr Inya Lawal
Fashion Industry Development Award: Claudia Kwarteng-Lumor was acknowledged for her efforts in developing the fashion industry and creating platforms that amplify African designers.
Representative from Ghana accepting the award for Claudia
Grand Master of Photography Award by AYKO Agency: Kelechi Amadi-Obi was honoured for his iconic fashion imagery, which has defined visual narratives in African fashion.
Kelechi Amadi-Obi
Cultural Fusion & Craftsmanship Award: Sandra Alonge was celebrated for her unique ability to blend traditional African aesthetics with contemporary design sensibilities, creating pieces that resonate culturally and artistically.
Sandra Alonge
Ruff and Tumbled COO receiving an award on behalf of Mrs Adenike Ogunlesi
Creative Economy Catalyst Award: Hon. Toke Benson was celebrated for her exceptional leadership in harnessing the economic potential of fashion, making significant strides in the sector’s growth.
Queen Vanguard Award: Olori Aderonke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi received accolades for her pioneering efforts in preserving and promoting African textile traditions, ensuring their legacy continues to thrive.
Fashion Storyteller and Cultural Innovator Award: Kofi Okyere Darko was lauded for his significant role in bridging culture, creativity, and the diaspora, amplifying the narrative of African fashion on global platforms.
The evening was not only a celebration of individual achievement but also a testament to the collective spirit of the African fashion community. As attendees reflected on the honorees’ contributions, it became clear that the FashionEVO Show & Awards is more than an event; it is a movement that champions the unique artistry and cultural significance of African fashion.
As the night came to a close, the FashionEVO Show & Awards reiterated its commitment to showcasing African fashion as a sophisticated and globally competitive industry, one that stands proudly alongside its international counterparts. The event left attendees inspired and eager to continue celebrating and supporting the remarkable talent within Africa’s fashion landscape.
